Free-agent backstop John Buck signs a three-year, $18 million contract to catch for the Marlins, the team that sought his services a minute after free agency opened. The signing of the 30 year-old catcher, who enjoyed a career year with the Blue Jays, hitting .281 with 20 home runs, continues Florida’s active participation in the early off-season, that also includes the acquisition of four relievers and an infielder.

Ron Gardenhire, a day after being selected as the American League Manager of the Year, accepts a two-year extension through the 2013 season from the Twins. The 53 year-old skipper has compiled a record of 803-656 (.550) record en route to winning six division during his nine-year tenure in Minnesota.

The Astros acquire Clint Barmes from Colorado for P Felipe Paulino. Barmes is slated to be Houston’s starting SS next year, after playing 2B with the Rockies last season.

The Blue Jays acquire OF Rajai Davis from Oakland in return for P Trystan Magnuson and Danny Farquhar.

The Tigers sign free agent reliever Joaquin Benoit, coming off a sensational year with Tampa Bay, to a three-year deal worth $16.5 million.

In the second trade of the general managers’ meetings, the A’s trade Rajai Davis to the Blue Jays for a pair of right-handed minor leaguers, Trystan Magnuson and Daniel Farquhar. Last week, Oakland acquired outfielder David DeJesus from the Royals, making their former fleet outfielder expendable.

The Marlins deal Dan Uggla to the Braves for infielder Omar Infante and left-hander Mike Dunn. Atlanta’s acquisition of the two-time All-Star second baseman, who hit .287 with 33 homers and 105 RBIs last season, could be a signal the team is uncertain about Chipper Jones’ status for next year after having surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left knee.